Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Minnesota?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/11/2025
Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Minnesota? In Minnesota, your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be affected if you return to work. SSDI is designed to provide income when you cannot work due to a disability, but earning income might change your eligibility. Depending on how much you earn and your work situation, your benefits could be reduced or stopped if you exceed SSA thresholds. Understanding these rules can help you plan and avoid unexpected loss of benefits.
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Understanding the Trial Work Period (TWP)
If you return to work, keep in mind:
- The SSA allows a Trial Work Period of 9 months where you can test your ability to work without losing SSDI.
- During TWP, you can earn any amount without immediate benefit loss.
- Months count only if earnings are above a specific substantial gainful activity (SGA) level.
After the Trial Work Period Ends
Once TWP is over:
- If you earn above the SGA limit consistently, SSA may stop your benefits.
- You may enter an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE), lasting 36 months, where earnings impact benefits.
- Benefits are reinstated automatically if you stop working and report promptly.
Reporting Requirements in Minnesota
To avoid issues:
- Report all work and earnings to Social Security promptly to prevent overpayments.
- Failure to report can lead to benefit suspension or repayment demands.
How Work Affects Medicare and Medicaid
Your health benefits may be affected:
- Continuing work above the SGA could impact Medicare eligibility or other Minnesota health programs.
- SSA has programs to help you maintain coverage while working, like expedited reinstatement.
When Benefits May Be Taken Away
In summary:
- If work earnings exceed SSA limits after trial work, SSDI benefits can be stopped.
- Benefits can be reinstated without a new application if disability continues and work stops.
- Careful planning and reporting can help you keep benefits while testing your ability to work.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we guide Minnesota residents on how working can impact SSDI benefits by:
- Explaining the trial work period and how to report earnings correctly to avoid benefit loss.
- Helping you understand the substantial gainful activity (SGA) rules specific to Minnesota.
- Assisting with appeals if your benefits are stopped incorrectly after returning to work.
- Providing ongoing support to ensure you maintain your Medicare or Medicaid benefits while working.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have questions about whether your SSDI benefits will be taken away when you go back to work in Minnesota, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. Our experienced team is ready to help you protect your benefits and plan your return to work with confidence.
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